MPOC Slams EU’s ‘Standard Risk’ Classification Under EUDR, Despite Malaysia’s Proven Record
The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) has strongly criticised the European Commission’s decision to classify Malaysia as a ‘standard risk’ country under the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) benchmarking system, calling the move unjustified and detrimental to global cooperation on sustainability.
In a statement today, the MPOC expressed disappointment over the Commission’s classification, especially as several EU member states with weaker records on forest conservation were granted ‘low risk’ status.
Dato’ Carl Bek-Nielsen, Chairman of MPOC, highlighted the inconsistency in the Commission’s approach. “Malaysian palm oil companies and smallholders have made significant strides in reducing primary forest loss and degradation, notably through the mandatory Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification scheme implemented since 2020,” he said.
“The European Commission knows that we have a far better record than some of their own member states, yet the decision reflects an obvious favouritism. This will only create resentment instead of fostering collaboration,” he added.
Echoing the sentiment, MPOC CEO Belvinder Sron described the Commission’s verdict as “deeply disappointing and highly questionable.” She stressed that Malaysia’s efforts in sustainability and forest protection have been comprehensive and verifiable.
“We will urgently request clarification from the European Commission regarding the benchmarking methodology behind this decision. The ‘standard risk’ label fails to reflect Malaysia’s achievements in reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable palm oil,” she said.
Belvinder cited multiple independent sources, including Satelligence and Global Forest Watch, to support Malaysia’s strong environmental track record. “Between 2014 and 2023, Malaysia reduced primary forest loss by 65%, outpacing global peers. In 2024, we achieved a further 13% reduction, dropping us out of the global Top 10 for tropical primary forest loss for the first time,” she noted.
Malaysia’s commitment is further reflected in declining oil palm planting and the enforcement of the MSPO 2022 standard, which prohibits any conversion of natural forests, protected zones, and High Conservation Value areas post-31 December 2019.
“These initiatives are aligned with the deforestation-free and legality criteria of the EUDR, as well as Malaysia’s broader climate commitments under the Paris Agreement,” Belvinder said, adding that the EC’s decision “discredits the benchmarking system” and risks undermining genuine progress.
“The EUDR should reward leadership in sustainable practices — not penalise it. Malaysia has done its part. Now, we expect fairness and recognition,” she concluded.
The MPOC said it remains committed to sustainable palm oil production and constructive engagement with the EU to resolve the issue.
